March 19, 2024

Raider softball loses to Ballard

HUXLEY — Class 4A Ballard got after the Collins-Maxwell/Baxter softball team early, and the 3A No. 12 Raiders couldn’t keep up during a 10-0, six-inning road game.

The Bombers plated four in the first inning and never looked back in the win.

CMB couldn’t take advantage of a bases-loaded, nobody out situation, and just didn’t show up ready to play, according to CMB coach Troy Houge.

“One team came to play tonight, and it was not us,” Houge said. “I give Ballard credit for coming out right away and getting after it.”

Abbey Kahler (8-3) lost for the third time this season in the circle after surrendering 10 runs on 14 hits. She struck out 10.

Kahler, a junior, led the offense with three hits, while sophomore Katie Camp, junior Mikayla Eslinger and eighth-grader Holly Jessen all had one hit.

CMB returns to action at 7 p.m. Friday against Heart of Iowa Conference rival South Hamilton in Collins. The Raiders host their annual home tournament beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday.